ABSTRACT

The last quarter of the twentieth century saw the emergence of various terms to redefine the current age, such as the "postindustrial society," the " information society," the " knowledge society," and the "third wave." A common feature of all these redefinitions is the centrality of knowledge (especially scientific knowledge) in modern society. Today, for survival and competition, no nation can ignore the use of scientific knowledge in its production, consumption, and betterment of the human condition. In almost all countries, the application of scientific knowledge is at the forefront of policy agenda adopted to reduce poverty, control endemic diseases, overcome environmental degradation, and enhance the quality of life.